Quality Control of Dual Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry

Abstract

Dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) is a dominant technique for the measurement of bone mineral density (BMD). Quality control (QC) of DXA is very important for the accuracy of results and correct interpretation made by the physician. We have performed the quality control procedures of Lunar DPX Pro bone densitometer according to the manufacturer’s recommendations and current clinical guidelines at the Institute of Nuclear Medicine & Allied Sciences (INMAS), Khulna. The objective of this study is to maximize the performance of the technologist as well as the reliability of the equipment (Linearity, X-ray tube output, Half value layer, Kerma-area product, Radiation field size, Fan angle, Spatial resolution, Room safety). The study result shows that the mean BMD reading is 1.004 g/cm2 with a standard deviation of 0.0035 and co-efficient of variation 0.34%. It also shows that the precision of the technologist is good and there is no malfunctioning in the DXA bone densitometer.